"Every man has a little cocky in him!"

James' story of growing up in the same small town as me is a true example of the saying, "hard times make strong people." Many facets of his personal environment were difficult and in our hot, humid summers (with only landline phones) it took quite a bit of effort and independence and a lot of sweat to meet up with close friends that were a lifeline for his soul.

The strength he gained in hard times gave him the desire to challenge himself and to do "harder things." Then a crucial juncture allowed him to tap into his innate leadership qualities and to commit to giving that strength direction and purpose.

James gives us a true hero's saga ... one in which the hero gains his strength "in battle" and becomes a vital, respected, and humble leader, protector, provider to his family and community and to all his relations.

Links to the talk mentioned in this episode by Martin Prechtel, "Grief and Praise":

Part 1 - https://youtu.be/UUwewfPPSbE?si=FgPVxwfmxThY2lML

Part 2 - https://youtu.be/6uAuP30ZD5A?si=dV5X--BnfoTU6SK5

Part 3 - https://youtu.be/r3PeRGtTYTk?si=ZVtPsvABFBy8LxLM

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